Critics’ choice - Thom Dibdin

Who are you?

I am The Stage’s Edinburgh correspondent and theatre critic for the Edinburgh Evening News.

What is your favourite type of show?

One which surprises me in some way. I love theatre which pushes the boundaries, whether it is exploring how to make theatre for one-year-old infants, finding new ways to stage old standards, or challenging society’s received wisdom.

What are you looking forward to?

Seeing all the shows with nominations for The Stage Awards for Acting Excellence in the last week of the fringe. Choosing the best should be tough if the standard is as high as normal.

What are you least looking forward to?

Finding a bowdlerised version of one of my reviews used to publicise a show. I’m flattered when my reviews are used for publicity, but chopping out the criticism is deceitful.

What is your best piece of advice for visitors?

Get around by bike, see as much as you can and explore the smaller venues.

Thom’s top five shows

• Special (Assembly Universal Arts, Freemason’s Hall) by Fecund Theatre.
• Damascus (Traverse Theatre) by Traverse Theatre Company.
• Not in My Name! - The Trial of Niccolo Machiavelli (Green Room) by Portrait Productions.
• Touch by Bill Dare (Pleasance Courtyard) by Festival Highlights.
• Venus as a Boy (Traverse Theatre) by National Theatre of Scotland/Burnt Goods.